Italy: Tourists Pay More, Sometimes Way More, for Same Services in Venice

By Larry Habegger | Permalink | No Comments | October 31st, 2007 | Trackback

The London Sunday Times reported widespread price gouging of tourists in Venice, where cafes, restaurants and bars routinely charge different prices for different nationalities, and considerably less for locals. The head of the Venice branch of Italy’s consumer protection agency called the problem an epidemic, and the overcharging is significant. In one case a couple was charged $720 for lunch in St. Mark’s Square. By law all dining establishments and hotels are required to post their prices, but many do not. The best advice to avoid being swindled is to memorize and use the words, “Fa me el conto,” which means “bring me the bill” or “bring me a printed receipt.” It provides evidence of what you have been charged and discourages ripoffs.

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